scarletfan

Contacted Dubai Exiles yesterday, had a really long informative chat with Jill. She explained everything that goes on with them, and how I could be involved. Veterans play touch rugby, and as I miss not being able to play the full game through fear of twisted metal, this is a good way to get involved again. Mission for August is to shape up and get fit, and start training with them in September. Question - is anybody else involved with the Exiles, or any other rugby clubs over here?

The Dean

Hi Llanelliman,

Exiles are a good club socially but it's all 'up in the air' while the new venue ("The Sevens") is being finished. Where are they training now - or is it still too early?

I'm involved on a wider scale - with the Arabian Gulf RFU rather than a particular club. Being in Saudi has reduced my effectiveness somewhat but I was Manager of the Arabian Gulf Under-19s until last year.

I also officiate at the Dubai Sevens, as part of the anti-doping team (and I've heard all the jokes, so don't bother!). I don't actually do the testing, I just collect the urine samples...... (I SAID I'VE HEARD ALL THE JOKES SO DON'T BOTHER!!!!!!!!!!)

Spugsy

you're taking the pi....oh, you said you'd heard them all, sorry.

Squirty Cream

When do tickets for the Sevens go on sale?

scarletfan

Currently, training facilities are on the Al Ain road, whilst the clubhouse and facilities are currently in portacabins until the new building is completed in October.

The Dean

Hi Squirty,

Usually about 5-6 weeks prior. This year it's 27-29 Nov so I'd keep my eyes open from about mid-Oct onwards if I were you.

Last year (first time ever) they ran out of ALL tickets beforehand.

MrsHaps

My hubby is going them (he's 27) looking to play first or second team. he knows a couple of people there already through work. I believe they are playing touch at the mo to begin the training. If i find out more info i could let you know when he is going up. Will be about two weeks, we are moving next wknd so probs the following week he will start training with them.

scarletfan

Thanks MrsH. I intend to start training in September. According to my consultants, I'm not supposed to run, but until I start training I won't know my capabilities. It will be good to get involved though, and that's the part I miss the most.

Blue Cat

and it is licensed, my Dad goes up there a couple of times a week along with Jimmy Lees, everyone knows Jimmy

scarletfan

Hi BC. Talking to Jill yesterday, she did say they have a really good social life up there as well. If your dad goes up there, he must obviously think the same, which is good to know.

The Dean

Blimey!! Is he still alive??

.... (Jim Lees I mean, not your dad....)

Blue Cat

he is more alive than Dad at the minute, infact he is looking after my dad as he has a DVT yes wor Jim is still around, he is amazing I just call him Grandad, he loves it

Spugsy

what's a DVT petal?

The Dean

Deep Vein Thrombosis?

Nasty........

Blue Cat

yes a rather nasty 5 inch blood clot in his lower calf, he is on Warfarin